An exciting opportunity awaits Thomas – next week he returns to Ability Camp where he will complete an intensive 5 week therapy program.
Some of you may recall Thomas attending Ability Camp in the past; 6 sessions between January 2007 and June 2008 - much of which is covered in this blog, including a very well chronicled video (see side bar).
Thomas did much of his “growing up” at Ability Camp and made many tangible gains; learning to use a walker, sitting independently at a table, using the potty and developing speech. He also made intangible gains like becoming more settled, patient and clearer in his thoughts and perceptions.
Ability Camp’s unique learning style combines movement that is functional and purposeful – it stresses outcomes that call upon students to complete to the best of their ability - tasks that children with cerebral palsy are often not given the opportunity or expectation to do.
The demands are high, so much learning is packed into 5 weeks which is why Thomas always extended his time to double sessions; he’d get on a roll, make progress and we didn’t want to interrupt that!
Days at Ability Camp begin early – classes start at 8:30 sharp and all children are expected to walk in to their utmost ability (wheelchairs/strollers are discouraged, even outside of class). Thomas will then spend 4 hours attending to a series of routine drills that engage all motor skills (gross, fine, speech) in repeated patterns, much of which is done to song (which Thomas responds well to). Each child will also complete an individual daily program to work on their tailored goals. Themes are woven into each week and include numeracy and phoenix skills to engage cognitive and academic learning.
During the afternoon, Thomas will receive Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy, a process that administers 100% oxygen at hyperbaric pressure to stimulate areas of the brain that are under active (often referred to as recoverable brain). By combining Hyperbaric Oxygen with intensive training, the brain creates neural pathways and communicates with the body more effectively.
The grand sum total, including giving Thomas concentrated time and attention to learn in an environment structured with space and equipment that lends to function, is a winning strategy.
I am very, very excited and optimistic, not to mention motivated to apply my own skills and knowledge which have upgraded significantly in the past 3 years.
We will of course live in community with other families – an advantage to meet, support and be supported by other parents experiencing similar goals and struggles. I count some of my closest friends amongst those created at Ability Camp. Adrienne will join us for the 1st week, since it coincides with March Break.
Due to the timing and being away for such an extended time, An Evening for Thomas silent auction has been postponed and will be rescheduled later this year. A current fundraising effort is underway to help off-set costs at Ability Camp. Individuals wishing to support Thomas can make a donation on line (see sidebar) or visit www.hopeforthomas.com for other giving options. Contributions of air miles towards to Thomas’ Charitable Aeroplan Fund are also needed, see side bar to access form.
On behalf of Thomas, I’d like to thank everyone for their continued interest and support and for your constant flow of encouragement. As usual I look forward to keeping you apprised of Thomas’ progress and sharing his journey of hope.
Many thanks,
Linda
